Head - Customs and Trade Compliance

About PSA BDPPSA BDP, a member of the PSA Group, is a leading provider of globally integrated and port-centric supply chain, transportation, and logistics solutions. The company is headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, and employs more than 5,500 people worldwide.We are a team that celebrates our unique diversity and close-knit community atmosphere. Our core values begin at the very top and span the broad reach of our global community.We offer dynamic careers for those individuals looking to be a part of something bigger and provide unequivocal opportunities for growth within the organization.PSA BDP serves over 5,000 customers, including some of the world's leading multinational companies within the chemical, retail & consumer, life sciences & pharmaceuticals, and electric vehicle & industrial verticals.SummaryThe Director or Head Trade Compliance will serve as the subject matter expert and escalation point for all matters related to trade compliance, including customs, export controls, sanctions, and regulatory compliance. The role requires deep knowledge of customs brokerage operations, particularly in the chemicals sector, and the ability to work closely with regulatory authorities, vendors, and internal stakeholders to ensure compliant, efficient, and risk-managed operations. This position requires strong leadership influence, collaboration, and decision-making skills to support PSA BDP’s operations in India.Key ResponsibilitiesAct as subject matter expert (SME) and escalation lead for customs, export control, sanctions, and trade compliance matters.Oversee customs brokerage operations, ensuring compliance with Indian Customs and global regulations.Design, implement, and improve trade compliance programs, collaborating with vendors, brokers, and internal/external partners.Act as primary liaison with Government authorities (Customs, DGFT, PGA, etc.) to resolve issues and represent company interests.Perform timely transactional reviews, audits, and compliance controls for imports/exports.Design and implement solutions to ensure compliance with AEO programs, SVB requirements/solution, FTWZ operations, and premise-based customs audits.Ensure HS Classification (India) for new and existing materials; manage tariff reclassifications and disputes.Determine country of origin (COO), manage HS code entries, and conduct FTA compliance reviews.Address and resolve Customs inquiries, audits, and escalated cases promptly and effectively.Provide regulatory interpretation and training to internal teams on customs, export control, sanctions, and DGFT/SCOMET/PGA-related topics.Monitor regulatory developments, assess impact, and implement corrective or proactive compliance measures.Partner with supply chain, commercial units, and global teams to ensure compliance and identify duty-saving opportunities via FTAs, tariff strategies, and trade programs.Support global and regional trade compliance initiatives and related activities as required.Contribute to risk management and process improvement projects to strengthen compliance culture.Job RequirementsEducationBachelor’s degree in any stream; MBA in operations is a plus.University degree in International Trade, Law, Logistics, or related discipline; professional certifications in customs/trade compliance preferred.Experience15+ years of international trade, customs brokerage, and compliance experience, preferably in chemicals, technology, or manufacturing sectors.Experience with compliance training, audits, and corrective action planning.Knowledge / SkillsStrong knowledge of Indian Customs, DGFT, SCOMET, PGA, AEO, SVB, FTWZ operations & audit procedures and familiarity with APAC or US EAR and global export control frameworks.Deep expertise in HS classification, country of origin determination, FTA qualification, and customs valuations, litigations etc.Hands-on experience managing Customs Brokerage operations for imports and exports.Proven ability to engage with Customs, DGFT, and other regulatory authorities effectively.Strong decision-making skills under pressure, with the ability to resolve escalations independently.Excellent analytical and IT skills (Microsoft Office, ERP, GTS systems).Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English.Strong cross-cultural collaboration and interpersonal skills.High integrity, ethical behavior, and ability to handle sensitive/confidential information.Ability to identify risks, develop solutions, and ensure smooth execution under tight deadlines.Licenses / CertificationsUniversity degree in International Trade, Law, Logistics, or related discipline; professional certifications in customs/trade compliance preferred.